LIFE began again for a West End brownie pack, which celebrated four decades of guiding last month.

On July 16, the 2nd West End pack celebrated their 40th birthday with a big party at the village headquarters. Dozens of brownies, old and new, attended.

County commissioner Cindy Barnes visited and watched the young brownies replicate some old-fashioned games such as Oranges and Lemons and What’s the Time, Mr Wolf? There was also a big cake to mark the special occasion.

Caroline Carter, district commissioner for West End guiding, said: “Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and, hopefully, the pack can keep going for years to come.”

But guiding in the village faces an uncertain future due to a lack of volunteer support. Only a last-ditch plea for help saved the 3rd West End brownies at the end of the school term.

Miss Carter fears that closures could become a reality if more assistance does not come forward soon.

She said: “At the moment we desperately need one person to come in for the 4 to 5.30pm group on Tuesday during term-time to keep the 3rd West End pack going. We have seven units — two rainbows, three brownies and two guides — with a total of 165 girls.”

There is also an urgent need for a weekly volunteer for the 2nd West End pack, although Miss Carter said that all of the packs would like extra help.

To find out more about volunteering, contact Caroline Carter on 07971 56090.